What are the security aspects to look at while developing a mobile app?
There has been a huge leap in the usage of smartphones and apps with every segment like shopping, travel, entertainment, on-demand apps, healthcare, etc available to people. With such a great increase in the usage of mobile apps, businesses across the globe are employing mobile app technology to utilize the bigger user base. But with the advancements of this technology, there has also increased security concerns across all modules. Since mobile apps have become a target for malicious activities, it has become highly important for businesses to secure the apps to save customer and business data.
Security aspects to look at while developing a mobile app?
The code should be written in a secure approach:
Coding is a highly crucial aspect of the mobile app which is not only key for delivering user-friendly solutions but also susceptible to attack from hackers. They can target the vulnerabilities in the app to utilize it in the wrong manner for their benefit. So mobile app developers must frame the code in a secure way to make it impossible for hackers to enter. Follow the best practices of that platform to have the best code quality with secured aspects at every level of the product. Research has proved that vulnerabilities in the code are one of the major reasons for security breaches.
Strong Data Encryption:
Data encryption is a method where data is transferred between places A and B with the ability to read only to those who have the authority of decryption keys to convert it to its original form. Mobile App developers must ensure that they are following the right encryption methods to not give a chance to hackers in stealing the data. In this approach, care should be taken in utilizing the decryption keys in the right way along with the handling of data. Regardless of any strong algorithm employed in the encryption mechanism, if the keys are not handled properly, then there are chances of failure in-app security. Hence encryption keys must be accessible only to handlers who are aware of all the business approaches without any confusion. Employing a strong multi-factor authentication is the best approach to secure the data. In the instance of hackers entering one layer, it is impossible to break other robust layers similarly. An expert mobile app developer who knows the encryption approach will securely implement these methodologies.
Lack of appropriate testing approach:
Despite employing all the secure methodologies, you can never take the security aspects for granted. Hence, there can be assurance about the app’s security only when the team checks it with robust testing methodologies. Include security aspects in all levels of testing cycles while repeating them in every iteration. Never miss to include test cases even for minimal changes in the code as they can have a big impact. The team must be updated with the latest changes in security-related technologies for keeping the app free from hackers’ actions. This offers updated protection to the app in case of any susceptible attack on any part of the product. You can use emulators to mimic real-world scenarios for recognising the vulnerabilities present in the app. Every latest update must be accompanied by security patches for ensuring that there is no new loophole in the system. Testing repeatedly using both manual and automation testing can help in identifying the security cracks in the product even before it is found by hackers. A comprehensive testing plan right from the initial stages can save the information of both customers and businesses from being stolen.
Employing advanced Cryptography Techniques:
In the modern digital era, it is crucial to be well aware of the proven tools to be used in cryptography techniques. The team should be updated with the advanced security algorithms and employ advanced encryption approaches for hashing. If the encryption keys could be accessed by the wrong person, then it could create a strong dent both for the company and the customer. For ensuring an error-free system, you need to use both automated and manual penetration testing mechanisms in all modules.
Only utilize trusted libraries:
Development of code will need 3rd party libraries for optimizing the functioning of various features and functionalities. Experts suggest not utilising libraries from unknown sources as they can cause damage to security. The loopholes in the library can let the attackers reverse the code for hacking the system. Testing the code during every addition of the libraries guarantees optimal protection.
Use of official API:
APIs form the main channel for the data transfer between various entities included in the process which makes it a crucial part of the system. So, it is crucial to ensure the safety of the API for the overall security of the app product. Using authorized API is one of the crucial aspects of the approach as it will negate the chance for users to utilize the information. When you employ 3rd party APIs, then you must be extra cautious about completely testing for vulnerabilities. There should be total clarity on giving access to only necessary and protected parts of the API which is key to reducing the vulnerabilities. Such aspects increase the importance of partnering with an expert mobile app developer who knows ins and outs of security-related utilisations. Otherwise, one small error in the implementation can lead to big disasters in the future stages.
To wrap up:
Mobile app security is a growing concern among mobile app developers and users alike, and an app that isn’t properly secured or is susceptible to data breaches runs the risk of being uninstalled or abandoned by users. As an app developer who cares about the safety of your own and the app users’ data online, you might be more comfortable hiring an expert professional to help you make your mobile application secure. With Brillmindz, you can hire an expert application security company with the skills needed to quickly and cost-efficiently help you secure your application.
